Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 July 2024
160. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Transport the reason those seeking to convert valid foreign licenses to Irish ones must submit their documents at the beginning of the process, rendering them unable to drive on the foreign licence for the many months it takes for the process to finish; the reason a case (details supplied) has been delayed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29623/24]
View answerSomeone resident in Ireland must have an Irish or EU driving licence to drive here. In accordance with the EU Driving Licence Directive, the foreign driving licence must be surrendered to the Road Safety Authority.
The most common reason for delays in the licence exchange process is from verification of the driving licence from the other driving licence authority. At times a response is received very quickly but sometimes there can be considerable delays.
Vigilance is needed when processing a foreign licence for exchange, to ensure a fraudulent document has not been submitted and to ensure a driving test was passed in the country in which the licence was obtained. Road safety and keeping Irish roads safe for all road users remains the priority in this matter.
I have referred the question on the specific case to the Authority for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response has not been received within ten days.
